Two young men from Rukara Sector in Kayonza District were buried when an illegal mining pit collapsed on them, killing one and seriously injuring the other.
ALSO READ: https://agaciropress.com/kenya-two-farmers-arrested-over-suspected-poisoning-of-elephants/
Mining Pit Collapses on Two Young Men
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, August 24, 2025, in Nyagaharabuge Village, Rwimishinya Cell, Rukara Sector.
The two young men, aged 18 and 16, had reportedly gone to illegally mine minerals at night in an unauthorized area when the mining pit collapsed on them.
Eastern Province Police spokesperson SSP Hamdun Twizeyimana told IGIHE that the two were buried at around 1 a.m., although the incident was only discovered by residents later that morning.
He said: “These young men went out under the cover of darkness to illegally mine minerals in an unauthorized area. The pit collapsed on them, and residents went to rescue them in the early hours of the morning. The 18-year-old was found dead, while the 16-year-old was rescued with a fractured leg.”
ALSO READ: https://agaciropress.com/rwanda-drc-and-burundi-discuss-reparations-for-belgian-colonial-damage/
One Young Man Dies, Another Injured
Residents responded to the incident and attempted to rescue the two young men from the collapsed pit.
The 18 years old was found dead, while the 16 years old survived but suffered a fractured leg.
The incident highlights the dangers associated with entering unauthorized mining areas, particularly when mining is carried out without proper safety measures or equipment.
Police Warn Against Illegal Mining
SSP Twizeyimana urged residents to avoid illegal mining activities, warning that they can result in serious accidents and loss of life.
He also encouraged people involved in mining to follow professional mining practices and use appropriate equipment that can help them report emergencies and receive assistance quickly.
ALSO READ: https://agaciropress.com/ruhango-dispute-erupts-between-residents-and-sand-miners-over-land/
Illegal Mining Remains a Concern in Rwimishinya
Illegal mining has reportedly remained a concern in Rwimishinya Cell, where young people are frequently seen mining minerals without authorization.
Residents have also accused illegal miners of damaging their crops while searching for minerals.
In recent months, Rwanda Police arrested more than 40 people in the area for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities.
Police later used drones in the area as part of efforts to combat illegal mining and raise awareness among people involved in the practice.
